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A Samsung washer’s SC code usually indicates a drainage problem; Samsung also identifies the related display as 5C. Check the drain hose and clean the user-accessible pump filter if your model has one before trying a reset. A reset may restart the controls, but it will not remove a blockage.

What does SC mean on a Samsung washer?

Samsung support identifies SC alongside 5C as a no-drain or drainage error. The display can be easy to misread, so check the code against your washer’s manual using the full model number. Samsung’s Korean support guidance groups SC, 5C, 5E, and SE as drainage errors; Samsung U.S. error-code guidance also lists SC and 5C under “No drain error.”

What to check first

Start with the drain hose and accessible filter. A kinked or blocked hose, incorrect hose installation, or debris in the pump filter can prevent the washer from draining. Check your model’s manual before opening an access panel; filter access and procedures vary.

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Inspect the drain hose

  • Look for kinks, sharp bends, or visible blockage.
  • Check that the hose is connected and positioned as described in the model manual.
  • Samsung UK’s guidance specifies that the hose should be at least 60 cm above the floor and no more than 150 mm inserted into a standpipe. These are regional installation measurements; follow your manual if its requirements differ.

Drain residual water and clean the filter

The following procedure applies to models with the described front access door and emergency drain hose. Follow the instructions for your exact model if its layout differs. Samsung UK’s 5E/5C support instructions recommend preparing for residual water before removing the filter.

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  1. Switch off the washer. Place a towel and a shallow container by the filter access area.
  2. Open the access door and pull out the emergency drain hose. Direct it into the container, remove its cap, and let the water drain. Secure the cap again when finished.
  3. Turn the pump filter counterclockwise to remove it. Clear debris, rinse it with warm water, and wipe the filter recess with a damp cloth.
  4. Reinstall the filter clockwise until it is locked in place, return the emergency drain hose to its holder, and close the access door.

Do not assume a new filter is needed just because SC appears. Cleaning is the first step; if the filter is damaged, match any replacement to the full washer model number.

How to reset the washer

Reset directions depend on the model. The Samsung WA5*A730*A*/WA5*A550*A* manual says to turn the washer off, unplug it, wait one minute, then plug it in again for a 5C code. If the information code remains, it directs users to contact Samsung customer service. Use this procedure only if it applies to your model; do not treat it as a universal reset.

A reset can restart the control, but it cannot clear a blocked hose or filter. Resolve the drainage issue first, then use the model-specific reset instructions if needed.

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When to contact Samsung service

If the hose is correctly positioned and clear, and you have cleaned the accessible filter but the code returns, stop at user-accessible checks and contact Samsung service. The drain pump or another internal component may need inspection. Samsung Korea’s drainage-error guidance likewise advises further inspection if checking the filter and hose does not resolve the issue.

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